DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA – May 11, 2026 – As thousands of tourism professionals gather in Durban for Africa’s Travel Indaba, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a strong condemnation of recent xenophobic incidents, assuring African travellers, industry stakeholders, and international partners of the nation’s commitment to safety and continental solidarity. The President’s remarks, delivered via his ‘From the Desk of the President’ address on Monday, come as the continent’s premier tourism trade event commences, aiming to foster business and showcase Africa’s diverse travel offerings.
Context of Rising Tensions and Tourism’s Importance
The President’s statement addresses a critical juncture, with the continent’s largest tourism gathering taking place against a backdrop of isolated but concerning violent incidents targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa. These events, which President Ramaphosa described as the acts of ‘opportunists exploiting legitimate grievances,’ threaten to tarnish the nation’s image and undermine the vital tourism sector.
Africa’s Travel Indaba officially kicked off with Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on Monday, setting the stage for three days of intensive business engagements. Thousands of buyers, exhibitors, and media representatives from across Africa and globally are present in Durban. The official opening is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, with President Ramaphosa expected to deliver a keynote address.
Reassurance and Economic Significance of Intra-African Travel
In his address, President Ramaphosa emphasized that the recent incidents do not represent the values of South Africa or its government policies. He stressed that such lawlessness would not be tolerated. This reassurance is particularly crucial given the significant contribution of intra-African travel to South Africa’s tourism economy. Last year, out of 10.5 million tourist arrivals, over 8 million hailed from other African countries, highlighting the indispensable role of regional visitors in sustaining the sector.
Africa’s Travel Indaba: Growth, Sustainability, and Public-Private Partnerships
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, speaking at the 2026 edition’s launch, highlighted Africa’s Travel Indaba as a long-standing success story of public-private collaboration. The event has been state-funded for over three decades, and the government is now actively seeking fresh proposals from the private and creative sectors to enhance its long-term sustainability and scale.
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